Internet of Things: SEP licensing within the FRAND framework

Standardised wireless connectivity enables billions of connected objects such as smart security systems, smart watches, smart meters, connected cars, remote surgery equipment, etc. to form the Internet of Things (IoT). These objects, which can be remotely managed, collect and exchange data using embedded sensors while relying on ICT standards to communicate.

Standards allow businesses of all sizes, especially startups and SMEs, to benefit from economies of scale, to specialise on what they do best and invest in product differentiation. Standards reduce barriers to trade, create open markets and a level playing field, thus spurring competition and innovation. Consumers also reap substantial benefits from standardisation, in terms of lower prices, wider and interoperable product variety and more innovation.

Considering the exponential growth of the IoT, 4iP Council created this page to provide some clarity on certain critical aspects based on academic research, webinars and articles 4iP Council has published since 2015.

Features:

Research:

Webinars


The Value of Standard Essential Patents and the Level of Licensing

This webinar explores whether the value of standard essential patents (SEPs) should be independent of the level of licensing in the value chain. It drew on a recent paper by the presenters who argue that the value of enabling technologies, such as SEPs, is best determined in relation to the value it produces to the consumer or end-user, regardless of the licensing level.

The presenters are:

  • Dr. Bowman Heiden
  • Dr. Jorge Padilla
  • Ruud Peters

 


The Value of Connectivity in the Automotive Sector

 

This webinar explores the actual value that connectivity in vehicles can bring to society and the different sectors affected. Connectivity is one of the four critical mega-trends facing the automotive industry. These trends are autonomous driving, shared mobility and electrification, yet connectivity is both separate and integrated to these other mega-trends. The importance of connectivity is therefore fundamental to the future evolution of the industry.

 

Presented by:

  • Dr. Bowman Heiden

 


Economic efficiency and field-of-use pricing of SEP licenses under FRAND terms

This webinar analyses whether price differentiation based on the field-of-use – a common strategy adopted by businesses with high fixed costs–is economically efficient per se, and in particular explains the implications for licensing of Standard Essential Patents (SEPs) on Fair, Reasonable and Non-Discriminatory (FRAND) terms and conditions.

Presented by:

  • Dr. Eskil Ullberg

 


Live Q&A on the ECJ Nokia v Daimler dispute

This webinar offered 4iP Council subscribers the chance to ask two eminent experts questions on this landmark dispute and related topics.

It covered the next steps now that Daimler has signed a licensing agreement with Nokia and all litigation between the two parties has been resolved, including the referral to the CJEU; the implications of this milestone agreement for the rest of the automotive industry.

The presenters are:

  • Prof. Nicolas Petit
  • Richard Vary